Description
These Puff Pastry Cheese Straws are a deliciously crispy and cheesy appetizer perfect for parties or snacking. Made with flaky puff pastry, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan, they deliver a flavorful twist with garlic powder and smoked paprika. Easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection, these cheese straws are quick crowd-pleasers.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a 10×12-inch rectangle to create an even base for the fillings.
- Make Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash that will help seal and brown the pastry.
- Brush Pastry with Egg Wash: Using a pastry brush, evenly coat the surface of the puff pastry with the egg wash to help the cheese and spices stick.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over half of the pastry rectangle.
- Fold Pastry: Fold the other half of the pastry over the cheese-covered half to enclose the fillings, then gently roll with a rolling pin to press the layers together.
- Cut Strips: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the folded pastry into 1/2-inch wide strips to form individual cheese straws.
- Twist and Arrange: Twist each strip several times to create the classic cheese straw shape and place them spaced about an inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Remaining Egg Wash: Lightly brush the tops of the twisted strips with the remaining egg wash to enhance browning.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese straws are puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cheese straws cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute other cheeses like Gruyère or spicy pepper jack for varied flavors.
- Store the straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- If the straws lose their crispiness, re-crisp them briefly in a warm oven before serving.
